Erik ten Hag has bemoaned the decision made by the referee Michael Oliver during Manchester United’s 2-0 defeat against Tottenham Hotspur.
The decision in question was a deflected shot by Alejandro Garnacho which cannoned off the arm of Spurs defender Cristian Romero.
Romero’s arm was seemingly in an unnatural position when the shot was deflected off the Argentine and went out for a corner.
The decision caused a stir among the United players and indeed Erik ten Hag who was furious at the decision not to give the penalty.
Ten Hag’s verdict
Speaking to Shamoon Hafez of BBC Sport, the Dutch manager was clear in his views on whether the decision to not award United a penalty was the right one.
“Absolutely, it was a penalty,” the Dutch manager said. “He changes the direction of the ball (when it hits his arm).”
The penalty decision came at a crucial time for United, the Red Devils were on top during the first half and the penalty, if it was converted, may well have been the turning point during the rather tight and tense encounter, particularly in the first half.
Was it to be expected?
Due to the serious outrage of Wolves not earning a penalty in stoppage time during United’s 1-0 win on Monday, it seemed likely that United may well suffer with referees and so it proved.
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How the penalty wasn’t awarded for Ten Hag’s side it’s beyond belief.
The sheer media outrage from Sky Sports and TalkSport, in particular, made it likely that the next game week would be one that would frustrate the United faithful.
United should not have had to rely on a penalty to win the game but when they’re denied a blatant decision that drastically affects the outcome of the game, then the Old Trafford club have every right to be aggrieved by the decision.